Gypsum wallboard can be installed over what type of strips attached to a masonry wall?

Gypsum wallboard, commonly known as drywall, is typically installed over furring strips when applied to masonry walls. Furring strips serve as a framework that provides an even surface for attaching the wallboard. They create a gap between the masonry and the gypsum wallboard, which helps with insulation and allows for any potential moisture to escape, thereby reducing the risk of damage to the wallboard.

Furring strips can be made of either wood or metal, but their primary function is to act as an intermediary surface between the wall and the drywall. This structural approach supports proper installation, ensuring that the wallboard is level and secure. Furring strips also facilitate the installation of insulation or electrical wiring if needed.

In contrast, while wood strips and metal strips might serve similar purposes, the specific term "furring strips" is essential as it denotes strips specifically designed for this application. Insulating strips, on the other hand, refer to materials specifically used for thermal insulation rather than for the physical structural support required to hang drywall. Thus, furring strips are the correct answer as they fulfill all criteria necessary for properly supporting gypsum wallboard on a masonry surface.